How to Write Your Essay for the Manning Family Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your interest in criminal justice. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments related to your academic and extracurricular activities. Use metrics or examples to illustrate your contributions and the impact you've made.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of knowledge or experience in criminal justice. Explain how this scholarship and further study will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your commitment to the field and your aspirations.

Outline Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your journey. Follow with body paragraphs that each focus on one of the four material buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear main idea. Conclude with a strong closing that reflects on your growth and future aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice to convey your ideas. Avoid generic statements and focus on specific experiences that illustrate your points. Open with a concrete moment rather than a thesis statement to draw the reader in. Ensure that every section answers the question, “So what?” by reflecting on how your experiences have shaped you and why they matter.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and review it with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself if each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and if it effectively communicates your motivations and aspirations. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific, personal experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to engage the reader.
• Do not fabricate details or use generic terms. Authenticity is key to making a meaningful connection with the committee.